Colombia is one of the top destinations for rafting enthusiasts, adrenaline seekers, and lovers of breathtaking landscapes. Across various regions of the country, there are rivers perfect for practicing rafting.
Five places to experience the best rafting in Colombia
Here are the top destinations for this thrilling sport, with key information about costs, access, the best times to visit, and what to expect.
Chicamocha River, Santander
Located in the majestic Chicamocha Canyon, this river is perfect for those seeking adrenaline and unforgettable landscapes. Its class III and IV rapids provide an exciting challenge for both beginners and experienced rafters. Additionally, the canyon’s stunning scenery is one of the main highlights of this experience.
Approximate cost: Tours start at $150,000 COP per person.
How to get there: From Bucaramanga, take a bus to Aratoca or San Gil (a one to two-hour ride), and from there, a ride to the canyon.
Best time to visit: From December to March and June to August during the dry season when water levels are more stable, ensuring a safe experience.
Recommendation: Combine your rafting adventure with a visit to Chicamocha National Park (Panachi)
Fonce River, Santander
Close to San Gil, known as the adventure sports capital of Colombia, the Fonce River is ideal for families and beginners. Its class II and III rapids guarantee fun without the need for prior experience. This river was also one of the first in Colombia to popularize rafting.
Approximate cost: Starting at $80,000 COP per person for a two-hour trip.
How to get there: San Gil is accessible by bus from Bucaramanga (two hours) or Bogotá (six hours). Once there, local agencies offer transportation to the river.
Best time to visit: All year round, but the dry season from December to March offers calmer conditions, perfect for beginners.
Recommendation: Enhance your experience with a visit to Gallineral Park, a natural paradise in the heart of San Gil.
Suarez River, Santander
For those seeking a more intense thrill, the Suárez River is an excellent choice. Its class IV and V rapids, such as “The Labyrinth” and “Martha’s Tongue,” make it a favorite destination for the most adventurous.
Approximate cost: Starting at $200,000 COP per person.
How to get there: San Gil serves as the starting point. Specialized agencies from there will take you to the river.
Best time to visit: From December to March, when water levels are more moderate, offering an exciting yet safe experience.
Warning: This river is not suitable for beginners due to the intensity of its rapids.
Negro River, Cundinamarca
Just two hours from Bogota, the Negro River is an accessible option for beginners. Its class II and III rapids over a six-kilometer route guarantee an exciting experience.
Approximate cost: Starting at $100,000 COP per person.
How to get there: From Bogota, take a bus to Tobia, the main town for rafting activities.
Best time to visit: The dry season (December to March and June to August) is ideal for enjoying stable conditions.
Recommendation: After rafting, explore Tobia and its additional activities, such as canopy tours and hiking.
Barragan River, Quindio
Situated in the heart of the Coffee Cultural Landscape, this river offers gentle class II currents, ideal for beginners and those looking to enjoy a peaceful setting surrounded by coffee farms.
Approximate cost: Starting at $120,000 COP per person.
How to get there: From Armenia, take a bus to Calarca and then a local ride to the river.
Best time to visit: Between December and March, when rainfall is less frequent, and the currents are more stable.
Recommendation: Combine your rafting adventure with a visit to a coffee farm for a full day of culture and fun.
Güejar River, Meta
Known as one of the most beautiful rafting destinations in Colombia, the Güejar River dazzles visitors with its rocky canyon, waterfalls, and crystal-clear emerald waters. Its class III and IV rapids offer a unique experience.
Approximate cost: Starting at $250,000 COP per person, including transportation from Villavicencio.
How to get there: From Bogota, take a bus to Villavicencio (three hours) and then a local ride to Mesetas, the access point to the river.
Best time to visit: From December to March, when the dry climate enhances the landscapes and ensures better rafting conditions.